The chronological order of my stories is now listed in WifeWatchman's biography.
Feedback and constructive criticism is very much appreciated, and I encourage feedback for ideas.
This story contains graphic scenes, language and actions that might be extremely offensive to some people. These scenes, words and actions are used only for the literary purposes of this story. The author does not condone murder, racial language, violence, rape or violence against women, and any depictions of any of these in this story should not be construed as acceptance of the above.
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Part 6 - Power of the Mind
"This is Amber Harris, KXTC Channel Two News!" said the lovely athletic blonde reporterette from the anchor desk of KXTC at 10:00pm, still Monday, October 5th. "Tonight we have a special report on the dog killings that are terrifying the County tonight. Our Senior Managing Editor, Bettina Wurtzburg, is here with a special report. Bettina?"
"Thank you, Amber." said Bettina. She was sitting next to Amber at the anchor desk, and the camera began zooming onto her older but still very attractive face as she spoke: "Channel Two News has learned that six dogs have been killed in separate parts of Town. Four dogs were killed in a neighborhood in the Southwest of Town, while two other pets were killed in a neighborhood north of Town."
The camera showed the fourth dog lying dead in the backyard of the unoccupied house. My investigation of that crime had shown that the dog had dropped dead on the spot where he'd been shot. And unlike the other three dogs, this one was emaciated, as if he hadn't eaten well for a considerable time.
Bettina continued: "I spoke with Police Commander Donald Troy this morning." The TV screen showed snippets of my interview with Bettina, and I was glad to see that they showed the parts where I asked Citizens to keep their dogs watched and indoors as much as possible.
Bettina added to it by saying "Tonight the Police continue to urge citizens to keep their pets indoors or in closed and locked garages as much as possible, and to also call the police hotline if they see any suspicious activity." The screen showed a number, which was actually to the Headquarters Duty Desk, where an extra Officer was stationed to handle calls.
Bettina added: "Sheriff Daniel Allgood has asked that Citizens also be on the lookout for someone who might be impersonating a police officer. Real police officers will be properly attired, wearing their badges and name tags, and will have identification they will willingly show you. Also, if you see a Police car that does not look like the real TCPD Police Cars or the University's Campus Police cars..." the video showed what our real cars looked like, "then please call the hotline. The Police are asking for your help to solve these horrible dog killings, and a reward is being authorized for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the criminals involved in these crimes."
"Think that'll help?" Laura asked me as we watched the evening news together. I was holding a sleeping baby Jim. Carole was in her crib upstairs, also sleeping, and I need not mention that my own dog Bowser was in his basket under my daughter's crib.
"I hope so." I said. "If people are aware, and keep their dogs safe, maybe we won't have any more killings."
I then said "I talked to Bonnie Karpathian today, too. About serial dog killers and what it means. She said that children hurting animals is a warning sign they may grow up to be serial killers of humans. She's going to look into our data and see if anything pops out that will help us."
"Good." Laura asked, seeing that I was distracted. "By the way, did you find out any more about that State Crime Lab?"
"Yeah. I called Tom Conlan." Conlan was the Deputy Director of the SBI, and Director of the SBI Reserve Corps. "He looked into it and called me back. I've heard of this happening before with the U.S. Congress, and asked him to see if it had happened: sometimes a bill is passed by the Legislature, but aides will actually add stuff in or change wording before the bill goes to the Governor's desk for signature."
"Can they do that?" Laura asked.
"They shouldn't be able to," I said, "but unless we can prove they changed it, we have no basis to challenge it in Court... and what the Governor signed is what the law is today. Apparently someone stuck it in the bill to add the University, or at least that property just north where the construction is happening, to the list of possible places. Originally, the Legislature only passed the Madison County location, or an upgrade to the current facilities in Midtown and Eastphalia. The whole paragraph was changed."
"Oh, wow." said Laura. "Did Jack Lewis know about this?"
"He had to have known." I said. "He had to approve it. Theoretically the Governor had a say-so, but apparently the State Attorney General, who oversees the SBI, agreed with Lewis on the University spot, and just told the Governor that it was decided. Chief Griswold talked to the Governor this afternoon, and the Governor is not amused and feels tricked. He's probably going to ask for the State AG's resignation, but that won't stop the construction; it's underway."
"Wow." said Laura. "That's really bad. What will it mean for the County's Crime Lab?"
"I am fortunate to have foreseen that there might be efforts to undermine our Crime Lab." I said. "By bringing in the Arson Labs and consolidating with the Public Health Department, our Crime Lab will still get funded. We will continue to serve Nextdoor County and Coltrane County by fiat of the contracts we have with them. But I've heard that the State Legislature might move to make those contracts null and void, and require the State Crime Lab to be used by them if they don't have their own facilities."
"Getting uglier by the minute." Laura said. "And don't ask Dr. Wellman for help: he says the University is going to get money so their Criminal Justice majors can intern at the State Crime Lab. Basically, the University Crime Lab is going to be shut down, and we'll be dependent on the local State Crime Lab."
"In other words, and in politically incorrect and offensive language," I said, "Dr. Wellman is being paid off by money flowing in to his University." I said.
"Not much gets by you, darling." Laura said, a bit sarcastically though meant to be humorous.
"I try." I replied. "Anyway, it's pretty obvious that this thing has been in planning for a long time. The money was allocated last Spring. What I just don't understand why they didn't start on it until just now."
"Is that what has you lost in thought tonight?" Laura asked.
"That's some of it." I said. "The dog cases are bothering me, too."
"I thought Cindy's response tonight was interesting." said my wife.
Cindy and her fiancée Jenna Stiles had come to supper with us. Carole had been delighted to see Cindy, and they had talked and played. Bowser usually just sits back and watches over Carole, but on this night Cindy called Bowser to come up on the sofa with them, and Bowser agreeably hopped right up next to them.
"Bowser is a good dog." Carole said, quoting her dad, as she softly petted Bowser. I observed that Cindy was also petting Bowser with a little extra love. Cindy would later look at me and say "How can anyone want to harm good dogs like this?"
"I don't know." I said. "And God have mercy on whoever is doing this..." I then went into a reverie, not realizing that Cindy had some things on her mind, as well...
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
After getting off duty earlier that day, Cindy had changed to civilian clothes. She drove back to the River Valley neighborhood and to the home of Mrs. Veasley. The woman's words about Cindy's father had rattled her earlier, and she wanted to have another conversation.
Her ring of the doorbell was answered by an elderly lady. Cindy was shocked at the woman's presence, but the woman was not surprised at all. "Come in, my dear." she said in her scratchy voice, a shawl over her head.
Cindy came into the living room, seeing Mrs. Veasley sitting next to a lamp. The drapes had been drawn shut in front of the large window, securing the room from any prying eyes outside. Cindy then noticed three place settings at the table in the dining room.
"Yes," said Mrs. Veasley, noticing Cindy's glance, "the Widow Jones told me that you would be joining us for dinner, and here you are."
"I..." gasped Cindy, "I'm having dinner with my boss and his wife tonight. I'm afraid I can't stay."
"Ah," said the Widow Athena Jones, "we're not going to be having too much. Consider this an appetizer for your dinner with Commander Troy."
"So," said Mrs. Veasley as she drove her wheelchair to the dining room, "you have come for answers about your father, and my knowledge of them."
"And they've been answered." Cindy said, looking at the Widow Jones.
"Yes, Child." said Mrs. Veasley. "Mrs. Jones was kind enough to tell me of your discovery of your relationship with Dr. Eckhart. I had the privilege of studying with him a number of years ago. His meditation techniques are so powerful; I can feel the energy coming into my mind. You also have that energy, Child, if you will only harness it, use it."
"My father is teaching me." Cindy said as she sat down at the table, practically forced by the Widow Athena Jones, who then served the light meals before sitting down herself. Cindy then said "But what I came to ask was about this dog case. It is clear to me that you are not only very observant, Mrs. Veasley, but you weren't just idly sitting in front of the window. You expected to see something, ma'am."
"Ah, your insight serves you well." said Mrs. Veasley. "I did go to the window, feeling that something was not quite right. And that is when I saw what I reported earlier. I could feel that something wrong, something sinister was happening, and that great Evil was in our midst."
"Yes, Evil indeed." said the Widow Athena Jones. "What did you observe about these two dog killings, my dear?" The question was to Cindy.
"The one in the empty house has me baffled. That dog looked malnourished. If he'd been there a long time with no one to feed him, why didn't other neighbors call for Animal Control to come and get him?"
"Are you sure he was always there?" asked Widow Jones, looking at Cindy. Cindy peered back, the gears in her mind trying to turn.
"And I will offer another question." said Mrs. Veasley. "Did your Commander not ask Mrs. White exactly why her dog was targeted?"
"He did not ask her while I was present." Cindy said. "But we did tell her, and her husband later, to be sure to lock all the doors, and the Commander suggested he keep his gun nearby and ready, that killing the dog may be a precursor to a home invasion attempt."
"Wise advice." said the Widow Jones.
"True," said Cindy, trying to think, "but it does not explain the second dog shooting down the road, at a totally empty house which could easily be burgled without the canine theatrics, and with nothing to gain except maybe the copper wiring and the thermostat controls and such stuff."
"And as you think of that and talk with the Commander," said Athena Jones, "perhaps the answers will come to you..."
Part 7 - Puzzle Pieces
"This is Bettina Wurtzburg, KXTC Channel Two News!" shouted the lovely reporterette at 7:00am, Tuesday, October 6th. "Channel Two News has learned that there were no reports of any dogs being killed last night. However, the hotline has been called with several tips of suspicious activity, which Commander Donald Troy says the Police are investigating. Commander Troy has also asked KXTC to pass along his thanks to you, the Citizens, for your alertness and your help in solving the dog murders, and in helping to prevent future killings."
"In other news," said Bettina, "reports are coming out of Midtown that the SBI legislation passed last Winter did not have funding authorization for the State Crime Lab being built next to the University Campus, but that Legislature aides slipped it in before the Governor signed the bill. Governor Jared has ordered an investigation, but he admits that nothing can be done now to overturn it. Governor Jared has also asked for the resignation of his State Attorney General over the matter, but it is not known if the A.G. will comply."
"Where is the Commander?" asked Martin Nash, looking around the room as they watched the broadcast and drank coffee.
"In his office." said Lt. Tanya Perlman. "The Duty Desk told me he rolled in here at three o'clock in the morning, and he went by all the Precinct Duty Desks before coming here. The third shifts got some shock treatment, but I didn't hear of anyone getting a Crowbar beatdown."
"Should've been in the gym this morning." said Captain Cindy Ross as she came into the room. "I got one. I was on the defensive all morning in our workout battle in the ring. He really let off some steam. I think he's really pissed about dogs getting killed. He loves dogs."
"As Bryan Thatcher found out, the hard way." said Martin Nash. Seeing everyone staring at him, he said "Oh come on, it's in the past and nobody will ever prove a thing."
"No, no they won't." said Tanya. "So let's say no more about it."
"I for one am very glad Bryan Thatcher is dead." said Joanne Cummings. Part of the shock was the venom in the pretty young woman's voice, considering that she was very Christian. But Joanne had been at the scene of retired Police Dog Laika's death, and she was not in a forgiving mood over that.
"Changing the subject," Tanya said, a bit more forcefully, "here's the question I have: why is Commander Troy the spokesman for the Police Force again? It's like the time he was Acting Chief. Shouldn't Chief Bennett be on the cameras over all this?"
"That is a good observation." said Cindy, sitting down in a chair and sipping her coffee. "I'll tell you guys this, but keep it under your hats: Jenna says there are rampant rumors in the D.A.'s office, City Hall, and the Courthouse that Chief Bennett may be looking to leave."
There were gasps in the room. "Why would he do that?" asked Theo Washington.
"I have no idea." said Cindy. "And Jenna didn't know what job he would be taking. And folks, it's just a rumor..."
"That's right." said a voice behind them. Strolling into the room was Your Iron Crowbar, ready to fill my mug with that Elixir of Life, coffee. As I poured my cup full, I said "And you should never believe rumors... unless *I* tell them to you, of course."
Laughter erupted as I pulled up a chair and sat down. "I'll just point out this one thing." I said. "This State Crime Lab was authorized last Spring. Yet there was no construction in May... June... July... August..." After a pause, I said "Now why do you suppose that is?"
"Sir," said Tanya, "I don't know why not until now, but wouldn't they have to start before January 1st? The State Constitution requires allocated spending like that has to happen before the calendar year is out, or it would have to be re-authorized next year."
"That's true. And good information, there, Tanya." I said, praising her. "So, they could've just not started the project. But they choose to now. Now why is that?"
Joanne Cummings astutely asked "Commander, are you suggesting there is a correlation between that construction beginning, and the rumors of the Chief leaving?"
"Who me? Would I ever suggest something like that?" I asked with very much mock shock in my voice. "And I can't correlate my daughter's feeding times, much less anything else."
"Yeah, try telling the Silverfish that." said Martin Nash, his voice deadpan flat. A clamor of agreement rose up at the memory of my correlation of the Silverfish's bank heists to the late Reverend Jonas Oldeeds' speaking tours.
"So there is a correlation." said Cindy, her voice a very hopeful whisper.
"Time will tell." I said. "Time will tell. By the way, everyone, the reports of the Animal Control Department's autopsies of the dogs are in your email inboxes, having been forwarded there by Yours Truly. I commend them to your reading attention. Especially yours, Captain Ross. Especially yours..."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
At 7:30am, the Police Commander's Special Assistant for Data and Technology, Master Technician Mary Mahoney Milton, came into Classroom 'E', where I was waiting. I called Cindy and told her to get Myron Milton and Theo Washington, and for all of them to join us in the classroom.
As we waited, I said "You're looking very good today, Mary. Very Goth." Mary had black leather pants, boots and jacket on. The shirt under her jacket was also black, and her hair was combed straight back, with Emo eyes and heavy lipstick. "What's the occasion?"
"A celebration, sir." said Mary. "Of good times to come. By the way, sir, you're looking pretty good yourself. I observe and deduce that your wife got a good pickle tickle last night." I laughed out loud at that one.
"As did you, judging from Myron's look." I said. Myron had just appeared at the door. Mary smiled at me and winked. A moment later, Cindy and Theo joined us.
"Okay, Mary," I said, "you were looking into the families whose dogs were killed. Any correlations?"
"Not that I can tell, sir." said Mary. "I also checked back on previous owners of the empty house. The man who lived there was a factory manager at BigPharmaCorp. He got a promotion two months ago, but at their plant in Colorado. BigPharmaCorp bought his house from him to facilitate his move, which is standard for them for executives. They haven't sold it yet, and just had it listed with a real estate agent a few days ago."
"Who was that agent?"
"Leanne Quinlin Gonzales." said Mary. "Daughter of the Fire Chief."
"Yes, I know her; she was the agent for the folks that sold me The Cabin, to my eternal gratitude." I said. "So the house was empty. From all of the reports filed, including those of the Crime Lab and Animal Control, and from my own observations, I would say that the dog was brought into the location only recently. Would you agree, Captain Ross?"
"Yes sir, but perhaps you should elaborate for the others." Cindy replied.
"Certainly." I said. "First, there were no dog droppings anywhere in the backyard. I know from watching my own dog that dogs have a certain area for using the potty, and they go there. There was none of that in that enclosed yard. Second, if that dog was not fed and watered, he'd be dead in a few days, not several weeks going on months. Third, no one heard any barking or other noises from that house in the last two months. Ergo, he was brought in, and then shot."
"But why do that?" asked Mary, peering at me with fascination.
"To answer that, let's look at the other northside dog killing." I said. "At the Whites. Now in a total vacuum, I'd think that dog killing was someone who intended to break into that house. Taking out the first line of defense, the dog, would be the expected first step... except that in such cases dogs are usually poisoned instead of being shot, to make it seem more natural or at least less sinister, to keep the owners from being more on guard."
"True enough." said Cindy. "But the other house is empty; therefore, no need to kill the dog. And now you're saying that the dog wasn't there very long to begin with."
"Yes." I said. "That dog was brought into the location. And that leads up to what I asked you to do, Myron: canvas back several days of camera coverage, if you could. Did you find anything?"
"No sir." said Myron. "Tapes had been overwritten, as there was nothing special going on before the dog killings. I had video from about 24 to 36 hours prior, but there was nothing unusual, and no police cars in the neighborhood at all."
"So Mary," I said, "we got away from your report, there. So no correlations?"
"No sir." said Mary. "Mr. White is a regional manager of a grocery store chain. No financial issues, no big credit card debts. Mrs. White is very active in the community and volunteers for many charity events; Mrs. Myrtle James spoke highly of her when I called and asked about Mrs. White."
"Good source, Mrs. James." I said. "What about the four killings on the southside?"
"The kid Jerome has been hanging out with the wrong kind of people." said Mary. "I'd expect we the Police Force will be getting to know him a lot better in the next couple of decades."
"Yeah, he knows T-Mac and T-Square's names too well." I said. "I'm betting he's transported some drugs on that bike of his, right under the TCPD's noses."
"He's been a person of interest several times." said Mary. "The dog wasn't really his, but would hang out at his house part of the time, and then was seen at another house in another neighborhood to the south. Jefferson Creek separates the neighborhoods. It runs west to the River, and it's hardly more than a deep culvert and storm drain creek now."
"That's not surprising, about the dog." I said. "Dogs are territorial, and operate within rough circles. If they get out of that circle, they might not go back home, but create a different circle with a home base within it. So if this dog crosses the creek, he's in a second territory, and he'd go to his home base depending on which side of the creek he is on."
"That's interesting." Theo said. "Heck, even dogs can't commit crimes in this County. The Iron Crowbar would be all over them, too."
"And I'm on the dogs' side on those issues." I said. "So whose house does... or did... this dog go to when it was south of the creek?"
"Kid named Marquis. About Jerome's age. They'd hang out, dog would hang out with them. The dog was more Marquis's than Jerome's." said Mary. "Marquis has no criminal record, and he lives in a two-parent home. Father works at the Crawford Mattress factory, mother is a school teacher. They don't have much, but their only debts are a car payment and their house payments."
"Mrs. Campbell was a retired teacher." said Cindy.
"That's true." I said. "Mary?"
"The other dog that was killed at the same time Marquis's dog, we can't find any owner for." Mary said. "That dog had no collar and no rabies tag. Then there's the two done in the night. The owners of the house next to Mrs. Campbell's were a retired and elderly black couple. He had worked at King & Ebenezer Food Industries, then retired when Mr. Colby sold it. She had been a nurse in the Free Clinic for years, meaning she was technically an employee of the Town & County Public Health Department. She was forced into retirement during budget cuts a few years ago, but she has a full pension."
"And the last dog," Mary said, "that was killed in the night was a pitbull. But he was apparently a docile and friendly pitbull to those in the neighborhood that knew him. He did do some barking before being shot. No one heard the shots that killed either dog."
"That's weird." said Theo.
"Weird, and therefore a strangeness and a cluuuue." I said. "Okay Mary, Myron, thank you very much. You can go. There is one other thing I'd like you to do, Myron. I want to know where every Police patrol was at the general times of these dog killings. You are authorized to access the GPS logs and any other information to create your report for me."
"Sir, do you think a real Police officer is doing this?" asked Myron.
"It's a possibility."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Once Myron and Mary were gone, I said "Let's talk about this case, guys. What do you think? Theo, you first."
"Sir," said Theo, "I don't see any patterns in these killings. But it did occur to me that we may be looking at two or more people doing it."
"That's a nice point." I said. "Lead me down that rabbit hole."
Theo said "Jerome and Mrs. Veasley's descriptions of the perp they saw matched fairly well. But different cars have been described. And if it were just one person, he'd be moving around from place to place in a short amount of time, and when Police move quickly, people tend to take notice and see them."
"Not bad." I said. "Captain, what do you think of that?"
"I actually have an idea that Theo might be right." Cindy said. "The reason is the dog killing at the empty house. It occurred to me that someone brought that sick, emaciated dog there and put him in the fenced-in yard. Then along comes this guy in the police uniform, who shoots the dog and then walks up the street and shoots the dog at the White's home."
Cindy continued: "The why of it escapes me; one dog killing could be to confuse us about the reason for the other. But if that rogue cop did not bring the dog to the empty house, a second person did. And therefore, I'd agree with Detective Washington about multiple perps."
"That's good thinking, both of you." I said. "And I'll add these things: first, Mrs. Campbell said the shadowy police figure she saw had a radio on his belt, while Mrs. Veasley made a point to say the police officer she saw in the daytime did not have a radio on his. Both are observant ladies, and I'm taking their descriptions at face value. Jerome is not so trustworthy, I'm afraid to say. He talked to me because I have developed a certain reputation in the Tenderloin District and Southwestern Ghetto areas, but that does not mean he told me the truth."
I continued before the others could say anything: "Another inconsistency in all this is that one police officer had no problem at all showing himself, shooting a dog in front of a kid, pointing the gun at the kid and threatening him. Then the northside police officer acted in broad daylight, where he was easily seen. By way of contrast, there were several dog killings at night, so that the perp or perps would not be seen. What does that suggest to either of you?"
Theo said "That there's two of them?"
Cindy said "I'd say that even if there was one guy, he's changing up his pattern, and on purpose. He suspects or knows that we are going to be analyzing these crimes for patterns; ergo, he deliberately puts out different patterns to confuse us. And that includes killings in two different areas of Town."
"That sounds like Iron Crowbar thinking, there." I said. "Okay guys, let's get back to work. Theo, keep following leads and looking for patterns. Dig deep in the logs to see if there have been reports of dog disappearances, dogs barking in the night, any incidents involving dogs. We may be just arriving to this party."
"Yes sir." said Theo.
"Okay, I've got to go ask Myron to do one more thing, then I'll meet with you, Captain, in my office."
Part 8 - Bear Trap Brutality
At 10:00am, I got a call from Governor Jared, asking if I could come down to Midtown the next morning for a meeting with Republicans. They wanted my input on who to put up as Governor against Director Lewis. I told the Governor that there was no way I was going to run, and it would be pointless for me to come down if that was their intent. The Governor assured me that they were not going to waste my time by asking me to run, so I agreed to go.
As I hung up, my lovely assistant Helena French buzzed me to tell me that Captain Ross and Lieutenant Masters wanted to speak with me. I asked her to send them in.
Lieutenant Wes "Coldiron" Masters had been doing a very good job with the Uniformed Officers since coming up from the Midtown Police Force. He still talked in his clipped, fast way, and Sergeants had gotten used to it. His personnel assignments to the Precincts had been logical and efficient, so for the very most part I left him to his work. For him to be here now bespoke an issue.
"Commander, Lt. Masters has an issue that he and I both thought you need to know about." said Captain Cindy Ross in introduction.
"Don't keep me in suspense." I said as they I waved my hand for them to sit down.
"Sir" said Masters, "I've been getting some input from the Sergeants. A good number of Officers are either confused or unhappy about your comments regarding dogs on the News Media yesterday."
"Which comments?"
"About shooting dogs and having it treated as if a human being were being shot." said Masters. 'About undergoing a full Board of Inquiry for shooting a dog."
"I think the policy is clear." I said. "So what are the real, underlying issues here?"
Lt. Masters normally kept his cool, even look on his face, but at that question he winced as he said "Sir, you may be aware that Police are being taught informally, if not outright formally, to shoot dogs pretty much on sight. During any raids, they're taught to just kill the dogs, even if the dogs are chained in the basement. They're taught to seek out dogs and kill them."
Masters continued: "Some of them believe that killing dogs is not only policy, but good and proper policy. They don't see shooting a dog as an incident or a problem, under any circumstances."
"And this was expressed to you?" I asked.
"The best way to say it is that my Sergeants are asking for clarification and direction." said Masters.
"Well, I'll damn well give them that, then." I said, feeling a bit angry. "Lieutenant, at 4:00pm today I want every Uniformed Police Officer on the Town & County Police Force in the Main Auditorium. Every officer, from every Precinct. Call up the third shift officers and tell them they are to report at 4:00pm for this briefing."
I was not finished: "Captain Ross, every Detective and Data Group person is to be in that auditorium for this briefing. I will call Captain Harlow and instruct her to have every Administrative Officer in that briefing. I mean loddy-doddy-everybody, and any absence will have to be formally explained. Do I make myself clear, people?"
"Yes sir." Cindy said. It took Masters a second to say "Yes sir." as he was stunned by my orders.
Just then, the Duty Desk Sergeant's head appeared in the doorway. "Commander, we just got a call of another dog killing."
"Thank you, Sergeant." I said. "Ross, get Washington. Masters, you can return to duty."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
University Avenue is the big four-lane road that runs north-south and separates the Town from the University. On the west side are bars, eateries, strip malls, First Precinct Headquarters, and the Bus Station where the road turns west to head towards the River and to the State Line. Behind those bars and businesses are a number of apartment complexes, some which house University students and some young people starting out in life.
I walked along a shaded courtyard between two apartment buildings, which had some large trees and a grassy walk. One would not believe in this tranquil setting that a busy street, restaurants and bars, and a busy road were just yards away.
I saw a group of people near a big bush between the sidewalk and apartment building. A young white woman was near the group, crying, and a young man with darker skin and a large amount of hair in something like an afro was comforting her.
"Over here, Commander." said Sergeant Rudistan, waving Cindy and myself over. I went over and looked under the bush, and saw one of the most brutal scenes of my life.
There was a circle of piled leaves and brush. Inside the ring a huge bear trap, with steel jaws and a powerful spring, had been set up. On the circular plate that would trip the trap was a large helping of dog food. The triangular jaws of the trap had been sharpened to razor-sharpness.
A white-haired poodle had stuck her head in to smell and taste the dog food, and the trap had snapped shut with powerful force... right into the poor dog's neck, essentially decapitating her.
"Oh my fucking God..." I gasped. I could handle the grisly scene; what made furious anger well up in my soul was the sheer brutality of what someone had done to this poor dog.
As I stepped back to gather myself, Cindy peered at the scene. She came out of there looking shocked. Her eyes were blinking, and then I noticed that she was going into deeper thought, like a reverie.
"Are these the owners?" I finally asked, nodding towards the young grieving couple.
"Yes sir." said Rudistan. I walked up to them.
"Hello, I am Commander Troy. Was this your dog?"
"Yes." said the woman. She still had some babyfat, but looked pretty athletic underneath it. The guy was slender but athletic, and sported a Fu Manchu beard and mustache as well as the mane of hair.
"I am very sorry for your loss." I said. "What are your names?"
"I'm Nikko Sexton." said the guy. "And this is my wife Jessica." The woman nodded.
"And you live in these apartments?" I asked. Nikko and Jessica confirmed it.
"What happened?" I asked.
"I brought Frizz out for her morning walk." said Nikko. "She's good about hanging around so I didn't keep her on the leash. She usually walks along the sidewalk ahead of me, finds a tree and does her business. We have to curb our dogs, so I had a plastic bag to collect the poop and put it in the trash can."
"So there are other people with dogs here?" I asked.
"Yes sir." said Nikko. "This is one of the few apartments in the area that have a good pet policy without too much of a deposit. So there are several dog owners here." I asked Nikko to keep going with the story.
"Well, Frizz went sniffing under that bush, there, and went on under it. About the time I got there I heard the snap and Frizz yelped. I went under and saw... well, I tried to open the trap but couldn't get a grip on it, but it didn't matter..."
"I understand." I said. "Let me ask, did you see anyone walking around here that you normally don't see? Anyone suspicious, acting suspiciously?" Both said they had not.
"Have you heard anyone say derogatory things about dogs, about wanting to kill dogs?" I asked. Neither had. I thanked them and told them I would do everything I could to find whoever did this.
"Rudistan," I said, walking back up to him as the Crime Lab finished up with the scene, "canvass these apartments and the neighborhood. See if anyone has seen or knows of anyone acting suspiciously. Also, tell the officers to ask if anyone in a Police uniform has been seen walking in this area, acting abnormally for a police officer."
Cindy came up as Rudistan went to give the orders. "I called Myron." she said. "He's getting video footage."
"Call Paulina or Jenna, too." I said. "Get a warrant as fast as you can to get these apartments' video footage. Get the warrant first, then barge in and take it. I don't want them to have any chance to erase or fuck with the footage. Go, do that now. Time is of the essence."
As I looked around the scene, I felt deep anger. That much brutality bespoke a level of evil that I had not encountered since... Bryan Thatcher. He was dead... but P. Harvey Eckhart had suggested he had had a partner... a partner who hated dogs, and enjoyed torturing dogs...
After giving the area a good look around, Cindy and I got into my Police SUV to drive back to Headquarters. It was a somber ride, and Cindy spoke up.
"Someone who hates dogs, Commander." she said. "Mrs. Veasley said to listen to my father's teachings. And he told us that a certain someone hates dogs, tortures dogs..."
"Yes." I said. "The dog at the empty house starts to make sense. Emaciated, not fed for days, then put in that yard and someone comes along and shoots him dead..."
"Sir," Cindy said, "what I saw of that poor poodle is beyond evil. I thought the Black Widow was the worst, but... well, she's a saint compared to whoever did that..."
I could not have agreed more.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
At 3:00pm, I sat in my office as Rudistan gave his report, with Cindy sitting on the sofa behind him, listening in. Myron Milton was also present.
"No one saw anything strange, sir." said Rudistan. "No police officers at all. It's possible to walk through there from the streets, but one has to go out of their way to do it; it's not a convenient shortcut."
"Myron, anything on the tapes?"
"Not in daylight, sir." said Myron. "The problem is that it is very easy for someone to play the shadows and get to that bush without being seen. I looked at the street footage to see if anyone entered that courtyard area, but no one did from the streets. The courtyard is surrounded by a high, wrought-iron fence, with a lot of old shrubbery growing in and around it. It'd be difficult to try to enter from anywhere but the gates."
"Another thing to consider," I said, "is that there are several people with dogs in these apartments. Someone could've walked their dog earlier, and if the trap were there before sunrise it is likely a different dog would be dead now."
"Either that," Cindy said, "or it was just plain bad luck for poor Frizz."
"What did you find out about Nikko and Jessica Sexton, Myron?" I asked.
"Young couple, he's 26, she's 25. She waits tables at a couple of the bar-restaurants on 'the Strip'. He's involved in some kind of sporting goods thing, selling bags and backpacks with a small startup company." Myron reported.
"Debts?" I asked.
"Credit cards are starting to get a bit on them, and they are making just over the minimum payments. His business is a startup, and they have mostly private investors." Myron said. "I don't know what those arrangements are, so he could be up to his eyeballs in debt. They don't have any student loans or debt that way, though."
"I am wondering," I said, "if that area is the normal place a dog is taken to do its business."
"I've got that for you, sir." said Rudistan, with what would've been joviality but for the somberness of the occasion. "I talked to the apartment staff. They say that they discourage walking the dogs in that closed area. There's a park not too far down the road, and most people take their dogs there. There's also a service road right behind the building across from the Sexton's, across the courtyard there. It's fenced on the other side, so people will take their dogs there and let the dog walk along that little service road unleashed, and the dogs do their business and come back."
"Okay." I said. "Thanks guys, you can go. Be sure to be at the 4:00 briefing."
After they left, I said to Cindy "Well, what do you think?"
"First Precinct." she said. "Dogs killed in every part of Town. Just one, this time, not two or four. Perp not seen at all, and in spite of us actually having a bit of camera coverage. Not shot this time, but using a truly hideous, filthy way to kill a dog. But no pattern to it with regard to the others."
"You're right." I said. "No pattern at all."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Captain, I'm ordering you to tell the Administrative Officers to remain at their desks and not go to the Commander's briefing."
The voice was a furious Deputy Chief Robert Brownlee. He'd heard of Commander Troy's orders to attend the 4:00pm briefing, and he was doing everything he could to countermand it.
"Commander Brownlee," said Captain Della Harlow, "the Police Commander is in charge of every individual Officer on the Force... including you. If Commander Troy tells me to have all of my people in that auditorium, then their place of duty at 4:00pm will be in that auditorium."
"Listen, you bitch," snarled Brownlee, "I am going to haul your fat ass before a Board of Inquiry for insubordination. *I* am in charge of Administration, not Troy, and if a single one of your people attend that meeting, I'll bring you and every one of them up for disciplinary action, including firings."
"Is there a problem here?" asked a voice. Della Harlow turned to see Captain Cindy Ross in the doorway to the office. A blue crowbar was being exhibited. Cindy continued "We can hear the unprofessionalism all the way down the hall."
"Get out of my office!" snarled Brownlee. "I'll give my people orders any way I see fit."
"Captain Harlow," said Cindy, "Commander Brownlee cannot bring you up on disciplinary charges because you're a Captain. It'll have to go through the Chief, and then the Sheriff. And you're right, Della, Commander Troy in in command of the Officers, not this paper-pusher."
Brownlee's face was almost purple with rage, giving Ross time to escort Harlow out of the office and down the hall to the Commander's office...
Part 9 - Putting It All On The Line
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the Police Commander!"
It was Lt. Wes Masters that had called the Force to attention as I walked in the door of the auditorium to the side of the stage. Nearly two hundred officers came to attention as I strode onto the stage and came to a stop behind the lectern. Only the Chief, Deputy Chief, and a few Officers that had been excused for personal reasons or vacation were not present.
"Take your seats." I said into the microphone. I then clipped a smaller microphone to my shirt collar so that I could move around and my voice still be clearly heard. The Force sat down and I looked down the long hallway at the rows of Officers.
"Ladies and gentlemen," I said, "I have called this briefing because of the situation of the killing of dogs in this County, but more to address this Police Force's policy on dealing with dogs."
The room was utterly silent but for the echo of my voice as I continued: "We have a situation where someone is impersonating a Police Officer, at least I hope it's just someone impersonating an Officer, and that perp is killing dogs all over Town. One of these killings was done in front of a child. Not only do we need to work to solve this case and find out who did this, we need to make sure we are following policy in doing it.
"Now if there is a rogue Officer going around killing dogs, I need to know about it. This is not about 'circling the wagons' because we're all Boys in Blue: when a police officer goes bad and does really bad things, it stains all of us. So if there is someone out there who is hurting our Police Force by committing these filthy crimes, do the right thing. You can call the hotline and be anonymous, if you feel you have to, but do it for the Force and the good guys you work with and have your back every day."
I paused, then said "Okay, I am not worried about you in that regard, but I do have another issue, and I want to make this one crystal clear:
"I am aware that different Police Academies teach different things. I am also aware of an unwritten code among some officers that dogs are to be shot on sight, shot on any raids no matter the threat, and sometimes even shot in front of owners for no reason. I am aware of postings to Facebook and other Social Media of police officers killing dogs for no reason at all.
"I saw one Facebook post where a dog behind a fence was shot by an officer... in front of a six year old child. The dog was no threat, and the child's safety was endangered. Now I understand that if a dog becomes a threat to either yourselves or other persons, you must do what you have to do. I get that. What I do not want is to see is the Town & County Police on Facebook as having officers that shoot dogs for no reason, that put people in danger in doing so.
"I have instructed the SWAT and Vice Squad teams that do raids that they'd better not shoot any dogs unless that dog is a threat. And believe me, people, I will investigate dog shootings, and I will know if someone tries to cover up an unjustified shooting. That also goes for any dog shooting. If it's justified, fine. But do not think you will be able to fool me by an attempted cover-up. Do not think getting other officers to lie for you will help you if you do the wrong thing. I will know, and I will get to the Truth."
The entire Force knew of my reputation, and no person present wanted to challenge it at this moment.
"I want to be exceptionally clear." I said. "If you draw your gun to shoot any threat, be it a human or a dog or another animal, it generates a serious incident and a Board of Inquiry. I think all of you know that in every shooting we've had, at least every one that I can think of, the investigation has been fair and thorough, and the correct result obtained. I want you to do your jobs without having to look over your shoulder, so if you are justified in your actions and in the use of lethal force, I will have your back and this Police Force will have your back."
I could feel some stirrings of unrest as I continued: "But make no mistake about this: in my opinion, which counts a lot around here, drawing your weapon to kill a dog is like drawing one to kill a person. If it's justified, I'll be the first person to defend you. But if it's not justified, I will do everything in my power, both personally and as the Police Commander, to end your career with this Police Force or any other Force. And that goes double for any attempt to cover up or lie about it."
I walked out to the side of the lectern, tapping my red crowbar in the palm of my hand as I continued speaking.
"Now some of you out there may not agree with me, and may think shooting a dog is not like shooting a person. I don't agree, but to be clear: the issue at hand is your authority as a Police Officer to use deadly force, your misuse of that authority in situations that do not justify it, and the trust and confidence of the Citizens of this Town & County, not to mention your fellow Officers.
"Therefore, be aware that killing dogs or other pets without justification is like killing someone's family member. The Media just loves to smear you, and therefore the entire Force, with stories of killing dogs; but more importantly, *I* will not tolerate it as the person responsible for every single one of you and your actions. If you kill a dog without justification, you will answer... to me."
Still tapping the crowbar, I finished up: "And ladies and gentlemen... if you do not agree with this policy, you can leave your resignations with me, and don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out. Do I make myself clear?"
There was a murmuring. I said very loudly "I can't hear you! Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes sir!" the Force shouted as one voice.
"Lt. Masters," I said, taking off the microphone and walking towards the side of the stage and the door, "dismiss them to their duties."
"Police Force, attention!" shouted Lt. Masters. Everyone rose as one body and stood at attention as I walked out the door.
Lt. Masters then took the lectern. "Stand at ease. Remain standing, though, as this will take only a minute. Ladies and gentlemen, do your jobs. Continue to do your jobs without feeling you have to look over your shoulders. If you act decisively, with confidence, and with professionalism, the Commander will have your back, as will I. If you do the right thing in the performance of you duties, we will support you. Okay, head on out, report for your duties and assignments." Officers started moving out, some rapidly, some slowly as they talked...
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Mixed results, sir." said Lt. Masters as he, Cindy, and I sat in my office. "You put the fear of God into them, but in terms of leadership you might have lost some loyalty."
"You may be right." I said. "I sure didn't like having to tell them that one of them may be bad, and I especially hate telling anyone to snitch. Nobody likes a narc."
"I think you did what you had to do, sir." said Cindy Ross. "And I don't say that just to kiss your ass. I'm worried about Public perception of the Force, as well. Priya Ajmani has called me twice asking for an interview."
"Yep." I said. "Okay, guys, I will not be here tomorrow morning. The Governor of the State has required my presence in Midtown. So Lt. Masters, keep the guys from revolting. You can go, I need to talk to Captain Ross for a minute." Lt. Masters got up, made his farewells, and left.
"So, are you going to give Priya that interview?" I asked.
"Yes, tonight. I think I should." said Cindy. "Before she goes to that piece of dog shit Brownlee. God only knows what he'll say."
"Oh, she'll go to him anyway." I said. "But don't worry about that. You're going to be in charge while I'm gone. I am hoping and praying that we have no more dog attacks, but if we do, call me. I love dogs more than I love the Governor, or politics."
"Wilco, sir." Cindy said. "Have you cleared it with the Chief about going to Midtown?"
"I sent him an email, cc'd to the Sheriff." I said. "Daniel will run any interference for me if it's needed. And if either the Chief or Brownlee give you shit while I'm gone, call Daniel right up."
"Yes sir." Cindy said. "By the way, I've observed and deduced something. I think you believe that it really is a rogue cop doing this. I doubt you would've given that speech the way you did unless you suspect that deep down."
"There's definitely more than one person involved," I said, "but yes, I do think one of them is a Uniformed police officer. I have no idea who, at least not yet. What do you think?"
Cindy sighed. "I... I just don't know. I try to use your methods, I try to use my mind and mental energy... and all I come up with is that I am still the Junior Troy around these parts."
I smiled, then said "You're doing fine; just great, in fact. I'm the one fucking up... I think Masters might've been right about that little speech I just gave. So what are your thoughts on the crimes?"
"It's so random, it's almost on purpose." Cindy said. "By that I mean the randomness, the lack of consistency is intentional, done that way by pre-planning and orchestration. And so I very much suspect whoever is doing this was advised by a certain... Consultant of Crime. His paws are all over this one."
"Junior Troy, my ass." I said. "Those are outstanding observations! So what do you deduce or infer from them?"
"That's where I fall short, and the Blue Crowbar defers to the Red one." Cindy said.
"I'm a bit stymied, myself." I said. "I'll just say this... I get the feeling that this is being done... to distract us. Our time and energies are being occupied. Someone's right hand is saying to us 'Look over here!' while their left hand is saying 'Just ignore what is going on here'. So be on the lookout tomorrow, while I'm gone."
"Don," Cindy said, "how are you going to catch this bastard? The dog killer, I mean."
"Well, I hope to have some data in from Mary and Myron soon." I said. "And if it confirms what I am thinking..." My blue eyes looked into my partner's as I said:
"... then I'll just have to go rogue, myself."
To be continued.
Feedback and constructive criticism is very much appreciated, and I encourage feedback for ideas.
This story contains graphic scenes, language and actions that might be extremely offensive to some people. These scenes, words and actions are used only for the literary purposes of this story. The author does not condone murder, racial language, violence, rape or violence against women, and any depictions of any of these in this story should not be construed as acceptance of the above.
*****
Part 6 - Power of the Mind
"This is Amber Harris, KXTC Channel Two News!" said the lovely athletic blonde reporterette from the anchor desk of KXTC at 10:00pm, still Monday, October 5th. "Tonight we have a special report on the dog killings that are terrifying the County tonight. Our Senior Managing Editor, Bettina Wurtzburg, is here with a special report. Bettina?"
"Thank you, Amber." said Bettina. She was sitting next to Amber at the anchor desk, and the camera began zooming onto her older but still very attractive face as she spoke: "Channel Two News has learned that six dogs have been killed in separate parts of Town. Four dogs were killed in a neighborhood in the Southwest of Town, while two other pets were killed in a neighborhood north of Town."
The camera showed the fourth dog lying dead in the backyard of the unoccupied house. My investigation of that crime had shown that the dog had dropped dead on the spot where he'd been shot. And unlike the other three dogs, this one was emaciated, as if he hadn't eaten well for a considerable time.
Bettina continued: "I spoke with Police Commander Donald Troy this morning." The TV screen showed snippets of my interview with Bettina, and I was glad to see that they showed the parts where I asked Citizens to keep their dogs watched and indoors as much as possible.
Bettina added to it by saying "Tonight the Police continue to urge citizens to keep their pets indoors or in closed and locked garages as much as possible, and to also call the police hotline if they see any suspicious activity." The screen showed a number, which was actually to the Headquarters Duty Desk, where an extra Officer was stationed to handle calls.
Bettina added: "Sheriff Daniel Allgood has asked that Citizens also be on the lookout for someone who might be impersonating a police officer. Real police officers will be properly attired, wearing their badges and name tags, and will have identification they will willingly show you. Also, if you see a Police car that does not look like the real TCPD Police Cars or the University's Campus Police cars..." the video showed what our real cars looked like, "then please call the hotline. The Police are asking for your help to solve these horrible dog killings, and a reward is being authorized for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the criminals involved in these crimes."
"Think that'll help?" Laura asked me as we watched the evening news together. I was holding a sleeping baby Jim. Carole was in her crib upstairs, also sleeping, and I need not mention that my own dog Bowser was in his basket under my daughter's crib.
"I hope so." I said. "If people are aware, and keep their dogs safe, maybe we won't have any more killings."
I then said "I talked to Bonnie Karpathian today, too. About serial dog killers and what it means. She said that children hurting animals is a warning sign they may grow up to be serial killers of humans. She's going to look into our data and see if anything pops out that will help us."
"Good." Laura asked, seeing that I was distracted. "By the way, did you find out any more about that State Crime Lab?"
"Yeah. I called Tom Conlan." Conlan was the Deputy Director of the SBI, and Director of the SBI Reserve Corps. "He looked into it and called me back. I've heard of this happening before with the U.S. Congress, and asked him to see if it had happened: sometimes a bill is passed by the Legislature, but aides will actually add stuff in or change wording before the bill goes to the Governor's desk for signature."
"Can they do that?" Laura asked.
"They shouldn't be able to," I said, "but unless we can prove they changed it, we have no basis to challenge it in Court... and what the Governor signed is what the law is today. Apparently someone stuck it in the bill to add the University, or at least that property just north where the construction is happening, to the list of possible places. Originally, the Legislature only passed the Madison County location, or an upgrade to the current facilities in Midtown and Eastphalia. The whole paragraph was changed."
"Oh, wow." said Laura. "Did Jack Lewis know about this?"
"He had to have known." I said. "He had to approve it. Theoretically the Governor had a say-so, but apparently the State Attorney General, who oversees the SBI, agreed with Lewis on the University spot, and just told the Governor that it was decided. Chief Griswold talked to the Governor this afternoon, and the Governor is not amused and feels tricked. He's probably going to ask for the State AG's resignation, but that won't stop the construction; it's underway."
"Wow." said Laura. "That's really bad. What will it mean for the County's Crime Lab?"
"I am fortunate to have foreseen that there might be efforts to undermine our Crime Lab." I said. "By bringing in the Arson Labs and consolidating with the Public Health Department, our Crime Lab will still get funded. We will continue to serve Nextdoor County and Coltrane County by fiat of the contracts we have with them. But I've heard that the State Legislature might move to make those contracts null and void, and require the State Crime Lab to be used by them if they don't have their own facilities."
"Getting uglier by the minute." Laura said. "And don't ask Dr. Wellman for help: he says the University is going to get money so their Criminal Justice majors can intern at the State Crime Lab. Basically, the University Crime Lab is going to be shut down, and we'll be dependent on the local State Crime Lab."
"In other words, and in politically incorrect and offensive language," I said, "Dr. Wellman is being paid off by money flowing in to his University." I said.
"Not much gets by you, darling." Laura said, a bit sarcastically though meant to be humorous.
"I try." I replied. "Anyway, it's pretty obvious that this thing has been in planning for a long time. The money was allocated last Spring. What I just don't understand why they didn't start on it until just now."
"Is that what has you lost in thought tonight?" Laura asked.
"That's some of it." I said. "The dog cases are bothering me, too."
"I thought Cindy's response tonight was interesting." said my wife.
Cindy and her fiancée Jenna Stiles had come to supper with us. Carole had been delighted to see Cindy, and they had talked and played. Bowser usually just sits back and watches over Carole, but on this night Cindy called Bowser to come up on the sofa with them, and Bowser agreeably hopped right up next to them.
"Bowser is a good dog." Carole said, quoting her dad, as she softly petted Bowser. I observed that Cindy was also petting Bowser with a little extra love. Cindy would later look at me and say "How can anyone want to harm good dogs like this?"
"I don't know." I said. "And God have mercy on whoever is doing this..." I then went into a reverie, not realizing that Cindy had some things on her mind, as well...
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
After getting off duty earlier that day, Cindy had changed to civilian clothes. She drove back to the River Valley neighborhood and to the home of Mrs. Veasley. The woman's words about Cindy's father had rattled her earlier, and she wanted to have another conversation.
Her ring of the doorbell was answered by an elderly lady. Cindy was shocked at the woman's presence, but the woman was not surprised at all. "Come in, my dear." she said in her scratchy voice, a shawl over her head.
Cindy came into the living room, seeing Mrs. Veasley sitting next to a lamp. The drapes had been drawn shut in front of the large window, securing the room from any prying eyes outside. Cindy then noticed three place settings at the table in the dining room.
"Yes," said Mrs. Veasley, noticing Cindy's glance, "the Widow Jones told me that you would be joining us for dinner, and here you are."
"I..." gasped Cindy, "I'm having dinner with my boss and his wife tonight. I'm afraid I can't stay."
"Ah," said the Widow Athena Jones, "we're not going to be having too much. Consider this an appetizer for your dinner with Commander Troy."
"So," said Mrs. Veasley as she drove her wheelchair to the dining room, "you have come for answers about your father, and my knowledge of them."
"And they've been answered." Cindy said, looking at the Widow Jones.
"Yes, Child." said Mrs. Veasley. "Mrs. Jones was kind enough to tell me of your discovery of your relationship with Dr. Eckhart. I had the privilege of studying with him a number of years ago. His meditation techniques are so powerful; I can feel the energy coming into my mind. You also have that energy, Child, if you will only harness it, use it."
"My father is teaching me." Cindy said as she sat down at the table, practically forced by the Widow Athena Jones, who then served the light meals before sitting down herself. Cindy then said "But what I came to ask was about this dog case. It is clear to me that you are not only very observant, Mrs. Veasley, but you weren't just idly sitting in front of the window. You expected to see something, ma'am."
"Ah, your insight serves you well." said Mrs. Veasley. "I did go to the window, feeling that something was not quite right. And that is when I saw what I reported earlier. I could feel that something wrong, something sinister was happening, and that great Evil was in our midst."
"Yes, Evil indeed." said the Widow Athena Jones. "What did you observe about these two dog killings, my dear?" The question was to Cindy.
"The one in the empty house has me baffled. That dog looked malnourished. If he'd been there a long time with no one to feed him, why didn't other neighbors call for Animal Control to come and get him?"
"Are you sure he was always there?" asked Widow Jones, looking at Cindy. Cindy peered back, the gears in her mind trying to turn.
"And I will offer another question." said Mrs. Veasley. "Did your Commander not ask Mrs. White exactly why her dog was targeted?"
"He did not ask her while I was present." Cindy said. "But we did tell her, and her husband later, to be sure to lock all the doors, and the Commander suggested he keep his gun nearby and ready, that killing the dog may be a precursor to a home invasion attempt."
"Wise advice." said the Widow Jones.
"True," said Cindy, trying to think, "but it does not explain the second dog shooting down the road, at a totally empty house which could easily be burgled without the canine theatrics, and with nothing to gain except maybe the copper wiring and the thermostat controls and such stuff."
"And as you think of that and talk with the Commander," said Athena Jones, "perhaps the answers will come to you..."
Part 7 - Puzzle Pieces
"This is Bettina Wurtzburg, KXTC Channel Two News!" shouted the lovely reporterette at 7:00am, Tuesday, October 6th. "Channel Two News has learned that there were no reports of any dogs being killed last night. However, the hotline has been called with several tips of suspicious activity, which Commander Donald Troy says the Police are investigating. Commander Troy has also asked KXTC to pass along his thanks to you, the Citizens, for your alertness and your help in solving the dog murders, and in helping to prevent future killings."
"In other news," said Bettina, "reports are coming out of Midtown that the SBI legislation passed last Winter did not have funding authorization for the State Crime Lab being built next to the University Campus, but that Legislature aides slipped it in before the Governor signed the bill. Governor Jared has ordered an investigation, but he admits that nothing can be done now to overturn it. Governor Jared has also asked for the resignation of his State Attorney General over the matter, but it is not known if the A.G. will comply."
"Where is the Commander?" asked Martin Nash, looking around the room as they watched the broadcast and drank coffee.
"In his office." said Lt. Tanya Perlman. "The Duty Desk told me he rolled in here at three o'clock in the morning, and he went by all the Precinct Duty Desks before coming here. The third shifts got some shock treatment, but I didn't hear of anyone getting a Crowbar beatdown."
"Should've been in the gym this morning." said Captain Cindy Ross as she came into the room. "I got one. I was on the defensive all morning in our workout battle in the ring. He really let off some steam. I think he's really pissed about dogs getting killed. He loves dogs."
"As Bryan Thatcher found out, the hard way." said Martin Nash. Seeing everyone staring at him, he said "Oh come on, it's in the past and nobody will ever prove a thing."
"No, no they won't." said Tanya. "So let's say no more about it."
"I for one am very glad Bryan Thatcher is dead." said Joanne Cummings. Part of the shock was the venom in the pretty young woman's voice, considering that she was very Christian. But Joanne had been at the scene of retired Police Dog Laika's death, and she was not in a forgiving mood over that.
"Changing the subject," Tanya said, a bit more forcefully, "here's the question I have: why is Commander Troy the spokesman for the Police Force again? It's like the time he was Acting Chief. Shouldn't Chief Bennett be on the cameras over all this?"
"That is a good observation." said Cindy, sitting down in a chair and sipping her coffee. "I'll tell you guys this, but keep it under your hats: Jenna says there are rampant rumors in the D.A.'s office, City Hall, and the Courthouse that Chief Bennett may be looking to leave."
There were gasps in the room. "Why would he do that?" asked Theo Washington.
"I have no idea." said Cindy. "And Jenna didn't know what job he would be taking. And folks, it's just a rumor..."
"That's right." said a voice behind them. Strolling into the room was Your Iron Crowbar, ready to fill my mug with that Elixir of Life, coffee. As I poured my cup full, I said "And you should never believe rumors... unless *I* tell them to you, of course."
Laughter erupted as I pulled up a chair and sat down. "I'll just point out this one thing." I said. "This State Crime Lab was authorized last Spring. Yet there was no construction in May... June... July... August..." After a pause, I said "Now why do you suppose that is?"
"Sir," said Tanya, "I don't know why not until now, but wouldn't they have to start before January 1st? The State Constitution requires allocated spending like that has to happen before the calendar year is out, or it would have to be re-authorized next year."
"That's true. And good information, there, Tanya." I said, praising her. "So, they could've just not started the project. But they choose to now. Now why is that?"
Joanne Cummings astutely asked "Commander, are you suggesting there is a correlation between that construction beginning, and the rumors of the Chief leaving?"
"Who me? Would I ever suggest something like that?" I asked with very much mock shock in my voice. "And I can't correlate my daughter's feeding times, much less anything else."
"Yeah, try telling the Silverfish that." said Martin Nash, his voice deadpan flat. A clamor of agreement rose up at the memory of my correlation of the Silverfish's bank heists to the late Reverend Jonas Oldeeds' speaking tours.
"So there is a correlation." said Cindy, her voice a very hopeful whisper.
"Time will tell." I said. "Time will tell. By the way, everyone, the reports of the Animal Control Department's autopsies of the dogs are in your email inboxes, having been forwarded there by Yours Truly. I commend them to your reading attention. Especially yours, Captain Ross. Especially yours..."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
At 7:30am, the Police Commander's Special Assistant for Data and Technology, Master Technician Mary Mahoney Milton, came into Classroom 'E', where I was waiting. I called Cindy and told her to get Myron Milton and Theo Washington, and for all of them to join us in the classroom.
As we waited, I said "You're looking very good today, Mary. Very Goth." Mary had black leather pants, boots and jacket on. The shirt under her jacket was also black, and her hair was combed straight back, with Emo eyes and heavy lipstick. "What's the occasion?"
"A celebration, sir." said Mary. "Of good times to come. By the way, sir, you're looking pretty good yourself. I observe and deduce that your wife got a good pickle tickle last night." I laughed out loud at that one.
"As did you, judging from Myron's look." I said. Myron had just appeared at the door. Mary smiled at me and winked. A moment later, Cindy and Theo joined us.
"Okay, Mary," I said, "you were looking into the families whose dogs were killed. Any correlations?"
"Not that I can tell, sir." said Mary. "I also checked back on previous owners of the empty house. The man who lived there was a factory manager at BigPharmaCorp. He got a promotion two months ago, but at their plant in Colorado. BigPharmaCorp bought his house from him to facilitate his move, which is standard for them for executives. They haven't sold it yet, and just had it listed with a real estate agent a few days ago."
"Who was that agent?"
"Leanne Quinlin Gonzales." said Mary. "Daughter of the Fire Chief."
"Yes, I know her; she was the agent for the folks that sold me The Cabin, to my eternal gratitude." I said. "So the house was empty. From all of the reports filed, including those of the Crime Lab and Animal Control, and from my own observations, I would say that the dog was brought into the location only recently. Would you agree, Captain Ross?"
"Yes sir, but perhaps you should elaborate for the others." Cindy replied.
"Certainly." I said. "First, there were no dog droppings anywhere in the backyard. I know from watching my own dog that dogs have a certain area for using the potty, and they go there. There was none of that in that enclosed yard. Second, if that dog was not fed and watered, he'd be dead in a few days, not several weeks going on months. Third, no one heard any barking or other noises from that house in the last two months. Ergo, he was brought in, and then shot."
"But why do that?" asked Mary, peering at me with fascination.
"To answer that, let's look at the other northside dog killing." I said. "At the Whites. Now in a total vacuum, I'd think that dog killing was someone who intended to break into that house. Taking out the first line of defense, the dog, would be the expected first step... except that in such cases dogs are usually poisoned instead of being shot, to make it seem more natural or at least less sinister, to keep the owners from being more on guard."
"True enough." said Cindy. "But the other house is empty; therefore, no need to kill the dog. And now you're saying that the dog wasn't there very long to begin with."
"Yes." I said. "That dog was brought into the location. And that leads up to what I asked you to do, Myron: canvas back several days of camera coverage, if you could. Did you find anything?"
"No sir." said Myron. "Tapes had been overwritten, as there was nothing special going on before the dog killings. I had video from about 24 to 36 hours prior, but there was nothing unusual, and no police cars in the neighborhood at all."
"So Mary," I said, "we got away from your report, there. So no correlations?"
"No sir." said Mary. "Mr. White is a regional manager of a grocery store chain. No financial issues, no big credit card debts. Mrs. White is very active in the community and volunteers for many charity events; Mrs. Myrtle James spoke highly of her when I called and asked about Mrs. White."
"Good source, Mrs. James." I said. "What about the four killings on the southside?"
"The kid Jerome has been hanging out with the wrong kind of people." said Mary. "I'd expect we the Police Force will be getting to know him a lot better in the next couple of decades."
"Yeah, he knows T-Mac and T-Square's names too well." I said. "I'm betting he's transported some drugs on that bike of his, right under the TCPD's noses."
"He's been a person of interest several times." said Mary. "The dog wasn't really his, but would hang out at his house part of the time, and then was seen at another house in another neighborhood to the south. Jefferson Creek separates the neighborhoods. It runs west to the River, and it's hardly more than a deep culvert and storm drain creek now."
"That's not surprising, about the dog." I said. "Dogs are territorial, and operate within rough circles. If they get out of that circle, they might not go back home, but create a different circle with a home base within it. So if this dog crosses the creek, he's in a second territory, and he'd go to his home base depending on which side of the creek he is on."
"That's interesting." Theo said. "Heck, even dogs can't commit crimes in this County. The Iron Crowbar would be all over them, too."
"And I'm on the dogs' side on those issues." I said. "So whose house does... or did... this dog go to when it was south of the creek?"
"Kid named Marquis. About Jerome's age. They'd hang out, dog would hang out with them. The dog was more Marquis's than Jerome's." said Mary. "Marquis has no criminal record, and he lives in a two-parent home. Father works at the Crawford Mattress factory, mother is a school teacher. They don't have much, but their only debts are a car payment and their house payments."
"Mrs. Campbell was a retired teacher." said Cindy.
"That's true." I said. "Mary?"
"The other dog that was killed at the same time Marquis's dog, we can't find any owner for." Mary said. "That dog had no collar and no rabies tag. Then there's the two done in the night. The owners of the house next to Mrs. Campbell's were a retired and elderly black couple. He had worked at King & Ebenezer Food Industries, then retired when Mr. Colby sold it. She had been a nurse in the Free Clinic for years, meaning she was technically an employee of the Town & County Public Health Department. She was forced into retirement during budget cuts a few years ago, but she has a full pension."
"And the last dog," Mary said, "that was killed in the night was a pitbull. But he was apparently a docile and friendly pitbull to those in the neighborhood that knew him. He did do some barking before being shot. No one heard the shots that killed either dog."
"That's weird." said Theo.
"Weird, and therefore a strangeness and a cluuuue." I said. "Okay Mary, Myron, thank you very much. You can go. There is one other thing I'd like you to do, Myron. I want to know where every Police patrol was at the general times of these dog killings. You are authorized to access the GPS logs and any other information to create your report for me."
"Sir, do you think a real Police officer is doing this?" asked Myron.
"It's a possibility."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Once Myron and Mary were gone, I said "Let's talk about this case, guys. What do you think? Theo, you first."
"Sir," said Theo, "I don't see any patterns in these killings. But it did occur to me that we may be looking at two or more people doing it."
"That's a nice point." I said. "Lead me down that rabbit hole."
Theo said "Jerome and Mrs. Veasley's descriptions of the perp they saw matched fairly well. But different cars have been described. And if it were just one person, he'd be moving around from place to place in a short amount of time, and when Police move quickly, people tend to take notice and see them."
"Not bad." I said. "Captain, what do you think of that?"
"I actually have an idea that Theo might be right." Cindy said. "The reason is the dog killing at the empty house. It occurred to me that someone brought that sick, emaciated dog there and put him in the fenced-in yard. Then along comes this guy in the police uniform, who shoots the dog and then walks up the street and shoots the dog at the White's home."
Cindy continued: "The why of it escapes me; one dog killing could be to confuse us about the reason for the other. But if that rogue cop did not bring the dog to the empty house, a second person did. And therefore, I'd agree with Detective Washington about multiple perps."
"That's good thinking, both of you." I said. "And I'll add these things: first, Mrs. Campbell said the shadowy police figure she saw had a radio on his belt, while Mrs. Veasley made a point to say the police officer she saw in the daytime did not have a radio on his. Both are observant ladies, and I'm taking their descriptions at face value. Jerome is not so trustworthy, I'm afraid to say. He talked to me because I have developed a certain reputation in the Tenderloin District and Southwestern Ghetto areas, but that does not mean he told me the truth."
I continued before the others could say anything: "Another inconsistency in all this is that one police officer had no problem at all showing himself, shooting a dog in front of a kid, pointing the gun at the kid and threatening him. Then the northside police officer acted in broad daylight, where he was easily seen. By way of contrast, there were several dog killings at night, so that the perp or perps would not be seen. What does that suggest to either of you?"
Theo said "That there's two of them?"
Cindy said "I'd say that even if there was one guy, he's changing up his pattern, and on purpose. He suspects or knows that we are going to be analyzing these crimes for patterns; ergo, he deliberately puts out different patterns to confuse us. And that includes killings in two different areas of Town."
"That sounds like Iron Crowbar thinking, there." I said. "Okay guys, let's get back to work. Theo, keep following leads and looking for patterns. Dig deep in the logs to see if there have been reports of dog disappearances, dogs barking in the night, any incidents involving dogs. We may be just arriving to this party."
"Yes sir." said Theo.
"Okay, I've got to go ask Myron to do one more thing, then I'll meet with you, Captain, in my office."
Part 8 - Bear Trap Brutality
At 10:00am, I got a call from Governor Jared, asking if I could come down to Midtown the next morning for a meeting with Republicans. They wanted my input on who to put up as Governor against Director Lewis. I told the Governor that there was no way I was going to run, and it would be pointless for me to come down if that was their intent. The Governor assured me that they were not going to waste my time by asking me to run, so I agreed to go.
As I hung up, my lovely assistant Helena French buzzed me to tell me that Captain Ross and Lieutenant Masters wanted to speak with me. I asked her to send them in.
Lieutenant Wes "Coldiron" Masters had been doing a very good job with the Uniformed Officers since coming up from the Midtown Police Force. He still talked in his clipped, fast way, and Sergeants had gotten used to it. His personnel assignments to the Precincts had been logical and efficient, so for the very most part I left him to his work. For him to be here now bespoke an issue.
"Commander, Lt. Masters has an issue that he and I both thought you need to know about." said Captain Cindy Ross in introduction.
"Don't keep me in suspense." I said as they I waved my hand for them to sit down.
"Sir" said Masters, "I've been getting some input from the Sergeants. A good number of Officers are either confused or unhappy about your comments regarding dogs on the News Media yesterday."
"Which comments?"
"About shooting dogs and having it treated as if a human being were being shot." said Masters. 'About undergoing a full Board of Inquiry for shooting a dog."
"I think the policy is clear." I said. "So what are the real, underlying issues here?"
Lt. Masters normally kept his cool, even look on his face, but at that question he winced as he said "Sir, you may be aware that Police are being taught informally, if not outright formally, to shoot dogs pretty much on sight. During any raids, they're taught to just kill the dogs, even if the dogs are chained in the basement. They're taught to seek out dogs and kill them."
Masters continued: "Some of them believe that killing dogs is not only policy, but good and proper policy. They don't see shooting a dog as an incident or a problem, under any circumstances."
"And this was expressed to you?" I asked.
"The best way to say it is that my Sergeants are asking for clarification and direction." said Masters.
"Well, I'll damn well give them that, then." I said, feeling a bit angry. "Lieutenant, at 4:00pm today I want every Uniformed Police Officer on the Town & County Police Force in the Main Auditorium. Every officer, from every Precinct. Call up the third shift officers and tell them they are to report at 4:00pm for this briefing."
I was not finished: "Captain Ross, every Detective and Data Group person is to be in that auditorium for this briefing. I will call Captain Harlow and instruct her to have every Administrative Officer in that briefing. I mean loddy-doddy-everybody, and any absence will have to be formally explained. Do I make myself clear, people?"
"Yes sir." Cindy said. It took Masters a second to say "Yes sir." as he was stunned by my orders.
Just then, the Duty Desk Sergeant's head appeared in the doorway. "Commander, we just got a call of another dog killing."
"Thank you, Sergeant." I said. "Ross, get Washington. Masters, you can return to duty."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
University Avenue is the big four-lane road that runs north-south and separates the Town from the University. On the west side are bars, eateries, strip malls, First Precinct Headquarters, and the Bus Station where the road turns west to head towards the River and to the State Line. Behind those bars and businesses are a number of apartment complexes, some which house University students and some young people starting out in life.
I walked along a shaded courtyard between two apartment buildings, which had some large trees and a grassy walk. One would not believe in this tranquil setting that a busy street, restaurants and bars, and a busy road were just yards away.
I saw a group of people near a big bush between the sidewalk and apartment building. A young white woman was near the group, crying, and a young man with darker skin and a large amount of hair in something like an afro was comforting her.
"Over here, Commander." said Sergeant Rudistan, waving Cindy and myself over. I went over and looked under the bush, and saw one of the most brutal scenes of my life.
There was a circle of piled leaves and brush. Inside the ring a huge bear trap, with steel jaws and a powerful spring, had been set up. On the circular plate that would trip the trap was a large helping of dog food. The triangular jaws of the trap had been sharpened to razor-sharpness.
A white-haired poodle had stuck her head in to smell and taste the dog food, and the trap had snapped shut with powerful force... right into the poor dog's neck, essentially decapitating her.
"Oh my fucking God..." I gasped. I could handle the grisly scene; what made furious anger well up in my soul was the sheer brutality of what someone had done to this poor dog.
As I stepped back to gather myself, Cindy peered at the scene. She came out of there looking shocked. Her eyes were blinking, and then I noticed that she was going into deeper thought, like a reverie.
"Are these the owners?" I finally asked, nodding towards the young grieving couple.
"Yes sir." said Rudistan. I walked up to them.
"Hello, I am Commander Troy. Was this your dog?"
"Yes." said the woman. She still had some babyfat, but looked pretty athletic underneath it. The guy was slender but athletic, and sported a Fu Manchu beard and mustache as well as the mane of hair.
"I am very sorry for your loss." I said. "What are your names?"
"I'm Nikko Sexton." said the guy. "And this is my wife Jessica." The woman nodded.
"And you live in these apartments?" I asked. Nikko and Jessica confirmed it.
"What happened?" I asked.
"I brought Frizz out for her morning walk." said Nikko. "She's good about hanging around so I didn't keep her on the leash. She usually walks along the sidewalk ahead of me, finds a tree and does her business. We have to curb our dogs, so I had a plastic bag to collect the poop and put it in the trash can."
"So there are other people with dogs here?" I asked.
"Yes sir." said Nikko. "This is one of the few apartments in the area that have a good pet policy without too much of a deposit. So there are several dog owners here." I asked Nikko to keep going with the story.
"Well, Frizz went sniffing under that bush, there, and went on under it. About the time I got there I heard the snap and Frizz yelped. I went under and saw... well, I tried to open the trap but couldn't get a grip on it, but it didn't matter..."
"I understand." I said. "Let me ask, did you see anyone walking around here that you normally don't see? Anyone suspicious, acting suspiciously?" Both said they had not.
"Have you heard anyone say derogatory things about dogs, about wanting to kill dogs?" I asked. Neither had. I thanked them and told them I would do everything I could to find whoever did this.
"Rudistan," I said, walking back up to him as the Crime Lab finished up with the scene, "canvass these apartments and the neighborhood. See if anyone has seen or knows of anyone acting suspiciously. Also, tell the officers to ask if anyone in a Police uniform has been seen walking in this area, acting abnormally for a police officer."
Cindy came up as Rudistan went to give the orders. "I called Myron." she said. "He's getting video footage."
"Call Paulina or Jenna, too." I said. "Get a warrant as fast as you can to get these apartments' video footage. Get the warrant first, then barge in and take it. I don't want them to have any chance to erase or fuck with the footage. Go, do that now. Time is of the essence."
As I looked around the scene, I felt deep anger. That much brutality bespoke a level of evil that I had not encountered since... Bryan Thatcher. He was dead... but P. Harvey Eckhart had suggested he had had a partner... a partner who hated dogs, and enjoyed torturing dogs...
After giving the area a good look around, Cindy and I got into my Police SUV to drive back to Headquarters. It was a somber ride, and Cindy spoke up.
"Someone who hates dogs, Commander." she said. "Mrs. Veasley said to listen to my father's teachings. And he told us that a certain someone hates dogs, tortures dogs..."
"Yes." I said. "The dog at the empty house starts to make sense. Emaciated, not fed for days, then put in that yard and someone comes along and shoots him dead..."
"Sir," Cindy said, "what I saw of that poor poodle is beyond evil. I thought the Black Widow was the worst, but... well, she's a saint compared to whoever did that..."
I could not have agreed more.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
At 3:00pm, I sat in my office as Rudistan gave his report, with Cindy sitting on the sofa behind him, listening in. Myron Milton was also present.
"No one saw anything strange, sir." said Rudistan. "No police officers at all. It's possible to walk through there from the streets, but one has to go out of their way to do it; it's not a convenient shortcut."
"Myron, anything on the tapes?"
"Not in daylight, sir." said Myron. "The problem is that it is very easy for someone to play the shadows and get to that bush without being seen. I looked at the street footage to see if anyone entered that courtyard area, but no one did from the streets. The courtyard is surrounded by a high, wrought-iron fence, with a lot of old shrubbery growing in and around it. It'd be difficult to try to enter from anywhere but the gates."
"Another thing to consider," I said, "is that there are several people with dogs in these apartments. Someone could've walked their dog earlier, and if the trap were there before sunrise it is likely a different dog would be dead now."
"Either that," Cindy said, "or it was just plain bad luck for poor Frizz."
"What did you find out about Nikko and Jessica Sexton, Myron?" I asked.
"Young couple, he's 26, she's 25. She waits tables at a couple of the bar-restaurants on 'the Strip'. He's involved in some kind of sporting goods thing, selling bags and backpacks with a small startup company." Myron reported.
"Debts?" I asked.
"Credit cards are starting to get a bit on them, and they are making just over the minimum payments. His business is a startup, and they have mostly private investors." Myron said. "I don't know what those arrangements are, so he could be up to his eyeballs in debt. They don't have any student loans or debt that way, though."
"I am wondering," I said, "if that area is the normal place a dog is taken to do its business."
"I've got that for you, sir." said Rudistan, with what would've been joviality but for the somberness of the occasion. "I talked to the apartment staff. They say that they discourage walking the dogs in that closed area. There's a park not too far down the road, and most people take their dogs there. There's also a service road right behind the building across from the Sexton's, across the courtyard there. It's fenced on the other side, so people will take their dogs there and let the dog walk along that little service road unleashed, and the dogs do their business and come back."
"Okay." I said. "Thanks guys, you can go. Be sure to be at the 4:00 briefing."
After they left, I said to Cindy "Well, what do you think?"
"First Precinct." she said. "Dogs killed in every part of Town. Just one, this time, not two or four. Perp not seen at all, and in spite of us actually having a bit of camera coverage. Not shot this time, but using a truly hideous, filthy way to kill a dog. But no pattern to it with regard to the others."
"You're right." I said. "No pattern at all."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Captain, I'm ordering you to tell the Administrative Officers to remain at their desks and not go to the Commander's briefing."
The voice was a furious Deputy Chief Robert Brownlee. He'd heard of Commander Troy's orders to attend the 4:00pm briefing, and he was doing everything he could to countermand it.
"Commander Brownlee," said Captain Della Harlow, "the Police Commander is in charge of every individual Officer on the Force... including you. If Commander Troy tells me to have all of my people in that auditorium, then their place of duty at 4:00pm will be in that auditorium."
"Listen, you bitch," snarled Brownlee, "I am going to haul your fat ass before a Board of Inquiry for insubordination. *I* am in charge of Administration, not Troy, and if a single one of your people attend that meeting, I'll bring you and every one of them up for disciplinary action, including firings."
"Is there a problem here?" asked a voice. Della Harlow turned to see Captain Cindy Ross in the doorway to the office. A blue crowbar was being exhibited. Cindy continued "We can hear the unprofessionalism all the way down the hall."
"Get out of my office!" snarled Brownlee. "I'll give my people orders any way I see fit."
"Captain Harlow," said Cindy, "Commander Brownlee cannot bring you up on disciplinary charges because you're a Captain. It'll have to go through the Chief, and then the Sheriff. And you're right, Della, Commander Troy in in command of the Officers, not this paper-pusher."
Brownlee's face was almost purple with rage, giving Ross time to escort Harlow out of the office and down the hall to the Commander's office...
Part 9 - Putting It All On The Line
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the Police Commander!"
It was Lt. Wes Masters that had called the Force to attention as I walked in the door of the auditorium to the side of the stage. Nearly two hundred officers came to attention as I strode onto the stage and came to a stop behind the lectern. Only the Chief, Deputy Chief, and a few Officers that had been excused for personal reasons or vacation were not present.
"Take your seats." I said into the microphone. I then clipped a smaller microphone to my shirt collar so that I could move around and my voice still be clearly heard. The Force sat down and I looked down the long hallway at the rows of Officers.
"Ladies and gentlemen," I said, "I have called this briefing because of the situation of the killing of dogs in this County, but more to address this Police Force's policy on dealing with dogs."
The room was utterly silent but for the echo of my voice as I continued: "We have a situation where someone is impersonating a Police Officer, at least I hope it's just someone impersonating an Officer, and that perp is killing dogs all over Town. One of these killings was done in front of a child. Not only do we need to work to solve this case and find out who did this, we need to make sure we are following policy in doing it.
"Now if there is a rogue Officer going around killing dogs, I need to know about it. This is not about 'circling the wagons' because we're all Boys in Blue: when a police officer goes bad and does really bad things, it stains all of us. So if there is someone out there who is hurting our Police Force by committing these filthy crimes, do the right thing. You can call the hotline and be anonymous, if you feel you have to, but do it for the Force and the good guys you work with and have your back every day."
I paused, then said "Okay, I am not worried about you in that regard, but I do have another issue, and I want to make this one crystal clear:
"I am aware that different Police Academies teach different things. I am also aware of an unwritten code among some officers that dogs are to be shot on sight, shot on any raids no matter the threat, and sometimes even shot in front of owners for no reason. I am aware of postings to Facebook and other Social Media of police officers killing dogs for no reason at all.
"I saw one Facebook post where a dog behind a fence was shot by an officer... in front of a six year old child. The dog was no threat, and the child's safety was endangered. Now I understand that if a dog becomes a threat to either yourselves or other persons, you must do what you have to do. I get that. What I do not want is to see is the Town & County Police on Facebook as having officers that shoot dogs for no reason, that put people in danger in doing so.
"I have instructed the SWAT and Vice Squad teams that do raids that they'd better not shoot any dogs unless that dog is a threat. And believe me, people, I will investigate dog shootings, and I will know if someone tries to cover up an unjustified shooting. That also goes for any dog shooting. If it's justified, fine. But do not think you will be able to fool me by an attempted cover-up. Do not think getting other officers to lie for you will help you if you do the wrong thing. I will know, and I will get to the Truth."
The entire Force knew of my reputation, and no person present wanted to challenge it at this moment.
"I want to be exceptionally clear." I said. "If you draw your gun to shoot any threat, be it a human or a dog or another animal, it generates a serious incident and a Board of Inquiry. I think all of you know that in every shooting we've had, at least every one that I can think of, the investigation has been fair and thorough, and the correct result obtained. I want you to do your jobs without having to look over your shoulder, so if you are justified in your actions and in the use of lethal force, I will have your back and this Police Force will have your back."
I could feel some stirrings of unrest as I continued: "But make no mistake about this: in my opinion, which counts a lot around here, drawing your weapon to kill a dog is like drawing one to kill a person. If it's justified, I'll be the first person to defend you. But if it's not justified, I will do everything in my power, both personally and as the Police Commander, to end your career with this Police Force or any other Force. And that goes double for any attempt to cover up or lie about it."
I walked out to the side of the lectern, tapping my red crowbar in the palm of my hand as I continued speaking.
"Now some of you out there may not agree with me, and may think shooting a dog is not like shooting a person. I don't agree, but to be clear: the issue at hand is your authority as a Police Officer to use deadly force, your misuse of that authority in situations that do not justify it, and the trust and confidence of the Citizens of this Town & County, not to mention your fellow Officers.
"Therefore, be aware that killing dogs or other pets without justification is like killing someone's family member. The Media just loves to smear you, and therefore the entire Force, with stories of killing dogs; but more importantly, *I* will not tolerate it as the person responsible for every single one of you and your actions. If you kill a dog without justification, you will answer... to me."
Still tapping the crowbar, I finished up: "And ladies and gentlemen... if you do not agree with this policy, you can leave your resignations with me, and don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out. Do I make myself clear?"
There was a murmuring. I said very loudly "I can't hear you! Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes sir!" the Force shouted as one voice.
"Lt. Masters," I said, taking off the microphone and walking towards the side of the stage and the door, "dismiss them to their duties."
"Police Force, attention!" shouted Lt. Masters. Everyone rose as one body and stood at attention as I walked out the door.
Lt. Masters then took the lectern. "Stand at ease. Remain standing, though, as this will take only a minute. Ladies and gentlemen, do your jobs. Continue to do your jobs without feeling you have to look over your shoulders. If you act decisively, with confidence, and with professionalism, the Commander will have your back, as will I. If you do the right thing in the performance of you duties, we will support you. Okay, head on out, report for your duties and assignments." Officers started moving out, some rapidly, some slowly as they talked...
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Mixed results, sir." said Lt. Masters as he, Cindy, and I sat in my office. "You put the fear of God into them, but in terms of leadership you might have lost some loyalty."
"You may be right." I said. "I sure didn't like having to tell them that one of them may be bad, and I especially hate telling anyone to snitch. Nobody likes a narc."
"I think you did what you had to do, sir." said Cindy Ross. "And I don't say that just to kiss your ass. I'm worried about Public perception of the Force, as well. Priya Ajmani has called me twice asking for an interview."
"Yep." I said. "Okay, guys, I will not be here tomorrow morning. The Governor of the State has required my presence in Midtown. So Lt. Masters, keep the guys from revolting. You can go, I need to talk to Captain Ross for a minute." Lt. Masters got up, made his farewells, and left.
"So, are you going to give Priya that interview?" I asked.
"Yes, tonight. I think I should." said Cindy. "Before she goes to that piece of dog shit Brownlee. God only knows what he'll say."
"Oh, she'll go to him anyway." I said. "But don't worry about that. You're going to be in charge while I'm gone. I am hoping and praying that we have no more dog attacks, but if we do, call me. I love dogs more than I love the Governor, or politics."
"Wilco, sir." Cindy said. "Have you cleared it with the Chief about going to Midtown?"
"I sent him an email, cc'd to the Sheriff." I said. "Daniel will run any interference for me if it's needed. And if either the Chief or Brownlee give you shit while I'm gone, call Daniel right up."
"Yes sir." Cindy said. "By the way, I've observed and deduced something. I think you believe that it really is a rogue cop doing this. I doubt you would've given that speech the way you did unless you suspect that deep down."
"There's definitely more than one person involved," I said, "but yes, I do think one of them is a Uniformed police officer. I have no idea who, at least not yet. What do you think?"
Cindy sighed. "I... I just don't know. I try to use your methods, I try to use my mind and mental energy... and all I come up with is that I am still the Junior Troy around these parts."
I smiled, then said "You're doing fine; just great, in fact. I'm the one fucking up... I think Masters might've been right about that little speech I just gave. So what are your thoughts on the crimes?"
"It's so random, it's almost on purpose." Cindy said. "By that I mean the randomness, the lack of consistency is intentional, done that way by pre-planning and orchestration. And so I very much suspect whoever is doing this was advised by a certain... Consultant of Crime. His paws are all over this one."
"Junior Troy, my ass." I said. "Those are outstanding observations! So what do you deduce or infer from them?"
"That's where I fall short, and the Blue Crowbar defers to the Red one." Cindy said.
"I'm a bit stymied, myself." I said. "I'll just say this... I get the feeling that this is being done... to distract us. Our time and energies are being occupied. Someone's right hand is saying to us 'Look over here!' while their left hand is saying 'Just ignore what is going on here'. So be on the lookout tomorrow, while I'm gone."
"Don," Cindy said, "how are you going to catch this bastard? The dog killer, I mean."
"Well, I hope to have some data in from Mary and Myron soon." I said. "And if it confirms what I am thinking..." My blue eyes looked into my partner's as I said:
"... then I'll just have to go rogue, myself."
To be continued.